The detainment of 38 individuals by Serbian police follows ongoing protests triggered by reported irregularities during the recent general elections. The opposition, particularly the group Serbia Against Violence, alleges election fraud, especially in Belgrade. Pics/ AFP
Updated On: 2023-12-25 06:11 PM IST
Compiled by : Sanjana Deshpande
Serbian authorities detained protesters who participated in demonstrations against election irregularities. The protests escalated to an attempt to access Belgrade's city council, resulting in confrontations with riot police using tear gas, pepper spray, and batons.
The detained individuals face charges related to inciting a violent change of constitutional order and violent behaviour. Police officials confirmed injuries to eight officers, some severe, during the clashes. The opposition alleges police brutality against its supporters.
Despite warnings from the police against blocking roads or bridges, more protests are planned. Law enforcement authorities assert readiness to counter any violent acts with determination, aiming to prevent disruptions in the capital.
The ruling Serbian Progressive Party denies election rigging, insisting that the elections were fair. However, international monitors and local observers reported numerous irregularities, including bought votes, ballot-box stuffing, biased media coverage, and misuse of public resources by the ruling party.
President Aleksandar Vucic labeled Sunday's protests as an attempt to overthrow the government with foreign support, without specifying further details. Prime Minister Ana Brnabic expressed gratitude to Russia for forewarning about potential violent protests.
Despite Serbia's EU membership aspirations, the country maintains close ties with Russia and refuses to align with Western sanctions on Russia. This situation poses complexities for Serbia's European integration amid allegations of election irregularities.
The opposition alliance, Serbia Against Violence, expressed non-recognition of the election results in a letter to EU institutions, urging them to investigate the outcomes and withhold recognition. They highlighted biases and unfair advantages for the ruling party during the elections.
Representatives of international rights watchdogs reported various irregularities in the electoral process, casting doubts on the fairness of the elections. Their observations included media bias, abuse of public resources, and the dominant presence of Vucic in the ruling party's campaign despite not contesting the elections himself.